The Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is an effective and affordable exercise machine that can help you develop and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Take a look at our review to learn more, but first, we encourage you to read up on our buyer’s guide to better understand recumbent bikes.
Things to Consider before Buying a Recumbent Bike
As you shop around for a recumbent bike, there are a few factors you may want to keep in mind that can help you narrow down your options.
User-Friendly Frame
It’s common for recumbent bikes to be used in physical therapy environments thanks to their low-impact functionality.
Because of that, it’s beneficial for it to also be designed so that it’s easy to use, and that starts with the frame itself.
A quality recumbent bike should have a step-through design so that you can sit down from either side without difficulty.
Also, since you’re using this at home, it helps if the recumbent bike doesn’t take up too much space.
A smaller footprint can give you more setup options around your home or at least make it easier to store it out of the way when you’re done using it.
Adjustability
Having an adjustable exercise bike is another key to making the machine easier to use.
Let’s first take a look at the seat. It should have a height range so that you can move it backward or forward to suit your needs.
This can also make the recumbent bike more versatile in terms of who can use it.
Beyond that, some bikes might even feature an adjustable backrest that may angle or move up and down according to your preferences.
The seat isn’t the only area where you should look for adjustability. The recumbent bike should also offer various resistance levels.
Some may have only a handful, while others feature more than 20.
Being able to adapt the bike according to your fitness level and goals is an important trait of developing a good routine.
Comfort
One aspect that ensures you’ll want to exercise and for extended periods of time is with using a comfortable machine.
On a recumbent bike, the seat should have enough cushioning to support you for those longer sessions.
It further helps if it has ergonomic handles and pedals.
Other than those features, you can note how comfortable a recumbent bike is by also considering the resistance system.
It should be smooth to pedal so that you aren’t struggling no matter what resistance level you’re at.
Additionally, many high-quality bikes are near-silent in operation so you don’t disturb anyone else.
This also makes it simpler to listen to music or watch your favorite shows and movies without having to turn the volume all the way up.
Quality Display
Before you settle on a recumbent bike, take a look at the display. Is it in a location that’s easy to read?
Whether the display is backlit or not, the numbers on it should be bright and clear for prompt reading while you’re exercising.
It further helps if it’s easy to navigate so that you’re not spending more time figuring out how to work the machine than you do using it.
Workout Programs
A beneficial way to weave a recumbent bike into your routine is if the bike comes with varied exercise programs.
These programs, typically pre-set, can easily help you adapt and use something different when you get on the bike.
They may also be useful as your health and fitness improve and you want to move onto other specific workouts.
Secure Pedals
Safety is always an important factor with exercise equipment and although recumbent bikes are straightforward, it’s still vital that you don’t slip while you’re working out.
So, take a look at the pedal design. Other than being ergonomic, it should have quality straps to keep your feet firmly in place.
Some may even have a textured, non-slip surface to further reduce the chance of you slipping off.
Durability
A robust recumbent bike is always a better choice than the alternative as a well-built machine should last you a long time.
Take a look at the weight capacity beforehand though, and a high capacity may be a good sign that the bike can hold up to frequent use.
Still, it also pays if the recumbent bike features a good warranty program. If anything, it might give you more peace of mind in case something ever does happen to it.
Introducing the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike
The Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike focuses on offering a user-friendly and low-impact cardio exercise experience that just about anyone can appreciate.
It’s adjustable so that you can adapt it accordingly, and with the various workout programs, it’s easy to use the bike to diversify your fitness schedule.
Pros
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Provides good lumbar support
- Multiple workout programs
Cons
- Not ideal for shorter people
- Display could be easier to read
- Lightweight flywheel
Features & Benefits of the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike
The Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is a quality recumbent bike that won’t have you breaking the bank to buy it.
Other than its affordability being a good selling point, there are several features of the Horizon Fitness Comfort R that may benefit your overall fitness.
ECB Magnetic Brake Resistance System
The magnetic resistance system on the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is known to offer a smooth ride for an easier experience.
This system also doesn’t produce that much noise so the recumbent bike is a good choice for apartment use or if you don’t live alone.
As for the flywheel, it’s light in weight at 15.4lbs. If it were heavier, you may have an even smoother operation as well as more range in terms of resistance levels.
However, the Horizon Fitness Comfort R still manages to make pedaling straightforward and simple, especially if used for recovery purposes.
Also, it does feature 16 resistance levels so there is a healthy range to work through for simple to slightly intense cardio workouts.
Fully Adjustable Comfort Seat
With the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike, one of the first things you may notice is its oversized seat design.
Along with the large size and cushioned surface, the seat also features ideal lumbar support.
This may make it simpler for users who are recovering from back complications to effectively use the recumbent bike.
The seat is also completely horizontally adjustable.
It can be moved within a good range to support numerous different users, but it might be best for users who are at least 5’0″ so that you aren’t overextending yourself.
Multiple Handlebars
With the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike, you can ride on the bike however you see fit.
There are handlebars near the seat that feature pulse grips so that the recumbent bike can track your heart rate.
They are easily accessible as you relax back against the seat.
Additionally, there are curved handlebars near the console of the recumbent bike that are easy to reach so that you don’t have to shift in your seat to grab them.
Secure Pedals
You can feel well-secured while using the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike thanks to the self-balancing pedals.
Meaning, these pedals are always facing the correct way when you sit down so you can readily slip your feet inside and go.
The pedals also feature a good textured platform and quality straps to better keep your feet planted at all times while you’re exercising.
Compact and Reliable Frame
The Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is a wonderful choice for home use with how compact the design is.
It weighs in at 99lbs, and thanks to the handle at the bottom near the back of the machine, you can lift it and drag it out of the way with ease.
Using it is simple as well since it features a step-through design. It’s especially helpful for those of you who may be unable to lift their legs too high.
As for durability, the steel frame appears reliable enough. It can even support users up to 350lbs.
LCD Display
To track your workout feedback, the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike features a 5.5″ LCD.
It is non-backlit so it may be a touch difficult to read in lower light situations.
However, the size seems adequate, and it is straightforward to navigate.
As for the feedback, it tracks the following: cardio compass, distance, calories, heart rate, RPM, resistance level, profile display, time, speed, and watts.
Numerous Workout Programs
A notable aspect of the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is that it features 12 different workout programs.
This gives you a comfortable amount of versatility to switch up your routine now and then.
You can cycle through the following programs:
- Manual
- Distance
- Fat Burn
- HR Training (Max HR and Target HR)
- Performance Intervals (Endurance and Speed)
- Training Intervals (Time and Distance)
- Race (Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced)
Additional Accessories
The Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike includes some extra features that can make the recumbent bike more user-friendly.
It features a reading rack for your book, phone, or tablet. This also has built-in speakers, a water bottle holder, and an energy saver mode.
Warranty Program
When you purchase the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike, you’ll be in a quality warranty program.
It comes with lifetime warranty support for the frame. The parts and the labor, meanwhile, each have a 1-year warranty.
What Others are Saying about the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike
A good way to learn whether the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is right for your home, besides considering our review, is taking note of how others just like you feel about the recumbent bike.
Check out a couple of comments we found to learn more about the bike:
Review #1 – Alexandra Spencer
This user praised how quiet the recumbent bike is, and although they said they purchased padded shorts to make the seat more comfortable, they still feel that it still has optimal padding. They also enjoy how easy it is to use the display.
Review #2 – T. Weeks
With this brief review, the user mentioned the easy assembly process. They also enjoy its durable design and that it has a small footprint.
Alternatives to the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike
If you’re still debating whether the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is right for you, why not check out some of our favorite recumbent bikes?
Some of these are more expensive, while another is more budget-friendly.
XTERRA Fitness SB250 Recumbent Bike
The XTERRA Fitness SB250 Recumbent Bike is an affordable, sleek recumbent bike with a walk-thru frame design for easy access from either side.
The XTERRA Fitness SB250 features friction-free magnetic resistance and a quality belt drive for a smooth low-impact workout.
XTERRA Fitness SB250 vs. Horizon Fitness Comfort R
- 14 workout programs | 24 resistance levels
- 13.5lb flywheel
- 300lb user weight capacity | 87.5lb bike weight
- Blue backlit 5.5″ LCD
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 1-year parts, 1-year brake
Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 Recumbent Cross Trainer is the only cross trainer in this list as it functions as both a recumbent bike and an elliptical.
The Teeter FreeStep LT3 features SureGrip™ handles that are adjustable in various locations to target different muscle groups. This also includes silent magnetic resistance and a compatible fitness app.
Teeter FreeStep LT3 vs. Horizon Fitness Comfort R
- 3-position recline seat | height-adjustable 4’11” – 6’6″
- 300lb user weight capacity | 110.2lb bike weight
- Variable magnetic resistance
- TeeterMove™ app
- Adjustable grips
LifeSpan R5i Recumbent Bike
The LifeSpan R5i Recumbent Bike is an expensive, high-end option that features a reliable design for both home and commercial use.
It includes a comfortable seat with a ventilated backseat setup that has additional lumbar support.
The LifeSpan R5i is a self-generating bike too, so it produces its own power as you pedal.
LifeSpan R5i vs. Horizon Fitness Comfort R
- Armrests with integrated heart sensors
- 40 workout programs
- 400lb user weight capacity | 146lb bike weight
- 16 resistance levels | 18lb flywheel
- Warranty: lifetime frame, 5-year parts, 2-year labor
Final Thoughts
There are many recumbent bikes on the market, but we feel the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is an optimal choice to give you a straightforward cardio workout at home.
It doesn’t weigh too much so it’s easy to move out of the way, but it supports a comfortable weight capacity, giving it a solid, stable build.
The bike also has a good amount of resistance levels and workout programs to give you a versatile exercise experience.
Feel free to read more about the Horizon Fitness Comfort R to see if it’s a good choice for your home.
